New speed-camera rules go into effect in Maryland

One of the security cameras installed to monitor speed cameras in Prince George\'s County. (Ari Ashe/WTOP)

WASHINGTON — Some new rules regarding speed cameras are in effect in Maryland, giving drivers extra protection against tickets they believe are issued in error.

Beginning Sunday, the new law requires each county or town to have a “point of contact” for drivers who think their ticket was issued in error. The point of contact would have the power to investigate and void speed-camera tickets.

Many towns already had such an ombudsman, but now all municipalities are required to have one.

Also, speed-camera suppliers are required to pay damages of more than 5 percent of their tickets are incorrect.

The law will also gradually end what’s become known as the “bounty program” — the fee that companies get each time you pay a $40 speed-camera ticket. Lawmakers argued that the fee put a premium on quantity over accuracy.